Publications by authors named "H Cummings"
Introduction: Adjunctive therapies to treat OFF episodes resulting from long-term levodopa treatment in Parkinson disease (PD) are hampered by safety and tolerability issues. Istradefylline offers an alternative mechanism (adenosine A2A receptor antagonist) and therefore potentially improved tolerability.
Methods: A systematic review of PD adjuncts published in 2011 was updated to include randomized controlled trials published from January 1, 2010-April 15, 2019.
Article Synopsis
- - The study aimed to understand the experiences and responses of COPD patients and their caregivers during exacerbations through semi-structured interviews at four different centers in England.
- - A total of 40 patients and 7 caregivers participated, revealing three major themes: the importance of clinician language, the profound impact of symptom worsening, and the lasting effects of early help-seeking experiences on patient behavior.
- - Findings suggest that early intervention and effective communication can significantly improve how patients and caregivers manage COPD exacerbations, with the "Breathing Space" framework offering a helpful approach for addressing their needs.
Short-acting beta-agonist (SABA) over-use in asthma is harmful for patients and the environment. The Investment and Impact Fund (IIF) 2022/2023 financially rewarded English primary care networks that achieved specific targets, including reducing SABA over-use (RESP-02) and lowering the mean carbon footprint per salbutamol inhaler prescribed (ES-02). SENTINEL Plus is a co-designed quality improvement package that aims to improve asthma outcomes and reduce asthma's environmental impact by addressing SABA over-use.
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- This study investigates the use of a 'smart' inhaler to monitor how well severe asthma patients stick to their treatment, specifically inhaled corticosteroids, and its effect on managing their asthma symptoms.
- After switching patients to a new inhaler, data such as blood eosinophils and asthma control scores were collected, showing that good adherence (over 80% usage) is related to better asthma outcomes.
- Results indicated that patients using the smart inhaler experienced significant improvements in asthma control without needing to start biological therapies, suggesting these devices could enhance treatment management.